We’ve all heard someone say they want to have children. But as British author and lecturer Simon Sinek points out, “No one says they want to raise them for 18 years.” It is precisely this difference, he explains, that lies in one of the great lessons of leadership.
In one of his TikTok videos, Sinek compares being a father to being a leader. According to him, many dream of managing teams or starting their own projects, but few truly realize what this entails in the long run.
“Everyone gets excited when they say: ‘I have my own business!’ But then comes the hard part: now you have to lead people. Processes can be learned, systems can be mastered, but the human part is ongoing and sometimes overwhelming,” explains the author.
Sinek — known for his book “Start with Why” and his popular TED talk “How Great Leaders Inspire Action” — insists that true leadership is not about power, but about service. He adds: “Being a leader means serving others. The best leaders, whether by choice or necessity, become students of leadership.”
The author asserts that leading people requires the same humility and desire to learn as parenting: listening, observing, making mistakes, and improving. “Just like when you’re a parent, you talk to other parents, you read books, you watch talks… the same thing happens in leadership.” comments.
For Sinek, the ultimate meaning of leadership goes beyond individual or business success. He defines it with a phrase that summarizes Sinek’s message, which reminds us that leadership is not a title or a goal, but rather an ongoing practice. Just like raising a child, it takes patience, empathy, consistency, and long-term commitment. His philosophy in life: “True purpose is to have the opportunity to serve those who serve others. This is what leading with purpose is all about.”
It is not enough to want to be a leader or have your own business; You must be willing to learn, adapt, and care for those who walk alongside you.
This approach to service and purpose has made Simon Sinek one of the most influential voices in the world of business and personal development. His Golden Circle Model—based on starting with “why” before “how” or “what”—has inspired millions of people and organizations to rethink the way they communicate, motivate, and lead.
Sinek’s message reminds us that leadership is not a title or a goal, but rather an ongoing practice. Just like raising a child, it takes patience, empathy, consistency, and long-term commitment.
It is not enough to want to be a leader or have your own business; You must be willing to learn, adapt, and care for those who walk alongside you.
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